Update: Heat illness & Active Component in the US Armed Forces in 2016

Research Paper Title

Update: Heat illness, active component, U.S. Armed Forces, 2016.

Abstract

In 2016, there were 2,536 incident diagnoses of heat illness among active component service members (incidence rate: 1.96 cases per 1,000 person-years [p-yrs]).

The overall crude incidence rates of heat stroke and “other heat illness” were 0.31 and 1.65 per 1,000 p-yrs, respectively.

In 2016, subgroup-specific incidence rates of heat stroke were highest among males and service members aged 19 years or younger, Asian/Pacific Islanders, Marine Corps and Army members, recruit trainees, and those in combat-specific and “other” occupations.

Subgroup-specific incidence rates of “other heat illnesses” in 2016 were highest among females, service members aged 19 years or younger, Marine Corps and Army members, recruit trainees, and service members in combat-specific occupations.

During 2012-2016, a total of 572 diagnoses of heat injuries were documented among service members serving in Iraq/Afghanistan; 7.9% (n=45) of those diagnoses were for heat stroke.

Commanders, small unit leaders, training cadre, and supporting medical personnel must ensure that military members whom they supervise and support are informed regarding risks, preventive countermeasures, early signs and symptoms, and first-responder actions related to heat illnesses.